Everything You Wanted to Know About Indians but Were Afraid to Ask: Young Readers Edition

Gr 6 Up–Reading this book is like enjoying a talk with a close relative who wants you to learn, grow, and continue to ask questions. Treuer, a professor of Ojibwe at Bemidji State University, presents himself as an ambassador of his people. In the book, adapted from the title of the same name aimed at adults, the author answers nearly 200 questions and covers topics ranging from Indian casinos to ceremonies, politics to powwows. Some questions will be familiar to young readers, such as “Why is there such a fuss about nonnative people wearing Indian costumes for Halloween?” The book is broken down into sections: Terminology; History; Religion, Culture, & Identity; Powwow; Tribal Languages; Politics; Economics; Education; Social Activism; Perspectives: Coming to Terms and Future Directions; and, the conclusion, Finding Ways to Make a Difference. Treuer speaks from his own perspective; he draws from his experience as an educator and is careful not to speak in generalizations or for anyone else. The title also includes recommended reading, source notes, and an index.